ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: Cytomegalovirus(CMV) is the most common cause of congenital infection with diverse clinical features according to the age of hosts. This study was done to evaluate clinical manifestations and complications in congenital CMV infection. METHODS: Between October 2000 and September 2001, 10 cases of congenital CMV infection were diagnosed by urine culture within 2 weeks after birth. Demographic data, clinical and laboratory findings were collected from maternal and newborn hospital records. RESULTS: There were 7 males and 3 females. Average gestational age was 38+0 weeks(34+2-41+1), average birth weight was 2462+/-598.2g(1670-3360) and 5 cases were small for gestational age. Average head circumference was 31.9+/-1.8cm(29-34.3). There were 4 cases of microcephaly, 6 cases of petechiae, 3 cases of leukocytopenia, 6 cases of thrombocytopenia. There was no case showing hepatomegaly, hepatic dysfunction, or pathologic jaundice. 4 cases showed physiologic jaundice. IgM level was elevated in 5 out of 9 cases. Polymerase chain reaction(PCR) was positive in 7 cases. All cases showed germinal matrix hemorrhage and septated cysts on cranial ultrasonography. 1 case showed cerebral calcification. 1 case showed bilateral sensorineural hearing loss on brainstem auditory evoked potentials(BAEP). There was no case showing chorioretinitis on fundoscopy. CONCLUSION: There were diverse clinical manifestations in CMV infection in neonates. All cases showed germinal matrix hemorrhage and septated cysts. When we find these findings, we should consider the possibility of CMV infection. One patient developed bilateral sensorineural hearing loss, so its early detection and follow-up might be necessary.